Coach Anthony Harris built a standard of excellence to Selma High girls’ basketball program.

Harris, The Selma Times-Journal’s girls’ basketball coach of the year, has decided to retire from coaching.

“After 33 years in the Selma City School system, I’m putting my whistle up,” Harris said. “I’ve just turned 65. It’s time for me to push on.”

Harris, who also coached football, baseball and track at Selma, said he will cherish the coaching honor. He was also named The Selma Times-Journal’s coach of the year in 2017.

“It’s a plus to receive the award,” Harris said. “We have good quality girls’ basketball coaches in Dallas County. I’m grateful for The Selma Times-Journal recognizing me.”

Harris coached the Lady Saints in two different stints: 1987-1989 and 2003-2019. He had a stellar record of 423-101 at Selma High.

The other accomplishments under Harris is equally impressive:  16 straight 20-plus win seasons, 11 area championships, 12 area tournament championships, two region titles in 2004, 2008 and reaching the AHSAA state Final Four in 2004 and 2008.

Harris said the credit should go to the players he coached and Queen City support over the years that made him successful.

“Without the kids, the success wouldn’t be possible,” Harris said. “I’d like to thank the players, school system and the community. The city embraced me and supported me.”

Harris’ final team at Selma High didn’t have the storybook finish to Harris’ career, ending with a state championship. The Lady Saints (22-9) lost to Blount 69-63 in the Class 6A Southwest Regional semifinals on Feb. 15 at Alabama State University.

The Lady Saints were led by Rodericka Parker, Tasharri Grimes and Aaliyah Hatcher, members of The Selma Times-Journal’s All-Dallas County team.

“Those three carried us this year,” Harris said. “We got off to a slow start, but the players remained confident. I’d love to coach Grimes and Hatcher again, but I can’t. They’re moving on. I wish Parker well next year.”